Our Mission

Chapter 2

ISABELLA

I sat in the back of the all-black luxury SUV, the windows tinted past the legal amount. Violet sat behind me focused on setting up the equipment before our arrival.

The seats to the back of the SUV had been replaced with a desk that had Violet's computer and above were two TVs. Below, they had a dozen control panels that could overwhelm the average person.

"Violet, stay nearby. I can't gamble on losing connection."

"Copy," She smirks, her fingers dancing along the keyboard until the blank screens show a clip of my surroundings. She moves to turn the volume down when I hear my voice.

Violet looks up and stares behind me, "We're set and just on time."

I turn to look out the window and see the tall black iron gates open. Dozens of vehicles that cost more than my yearly salary drive up the gravel path.

It wasn't long until the bumps became smooth cement. Alongside were acres of land filled with trimmed grass. We curve around the three-layered fountain that is topped with a baby Angel spewing water out its mouth.

Despite Lorenzo's horrendous acts of violence and illegal activity, the man had excellent taste.

We follow the row of cars and pause every few minutes as the guests are let out and Violet helps me touch up before it is finally my turn.

"Ready?"

"Ready," I say giving her a last look.

The door to the SUV swings open and the driver helps me out. My heels hit the floor and the tail of my gown trails behind me. My long hair flowed with the light breeze.

It was the beginning of September and the summer warmth still lingered. The sun has set and the grand doors to the venue spill light.

I climbed the steps that led to the entrance. Dozens of people surrounded me and I kept calm. I grin at those who spared me a glance to take off any suspicions.

The ballroom was lit up by three old-fashioned crystal chandeliers. The tall stained glass windows along the walls were partly covered with creamy silk drapes, and the light wooden floors were polished leaving a glaring shine.

The place was beyond beautiful. I only wish I had come as a real guest to admire it.

Waiters and waitresses in all-black attire walked along the stationed standing tables with trays of champagne and appetizers.

I escorted myself over to one of the tables that were placed farther away. The tables were covered with a rich cloth and a glass centerpiece.

I hadn't seen a single Russo in sight and I found it quite a cliche of them wanting a separate introduction. So all focus could be on them.

Many kept themselves busy by speaking with their alliances and enemies. The rest of the men dressed in their fancy suits had danced with their partners dripped in diamonds. The orchestra played their waltz.

Not a single person was paying any mind to me. How easy it would be to snoop around but I couldn't risk it. Instead, I grab a glass of champagne from a waitress and observe my surroundings.